Top 10 Kitchen Design Mistakes

Are you thinking about redecorating your kitchen? Here are ten kitchen design mistakes to avoid.

1). Not enough ventilation. Failure to have a proper ventilation system in your kitchen will make it stuffy and hard to breathe, particularly when cooking greasy or overpowering foods. Exhaust fans can help circulate air, as well as prevent smoke from soaking into counters.

2). Overcrowding of appliances. Some appliances, such as juicers or ice cream makers get far less use than toasters and microwaves. These appliances should be stored in cabinets and not left out. Overcrowding the workspace makes even nicely decorated kitchens look less appealing.

3). Not enough storage. If you do not have a pantry in your kitchen, you will need adequate cabinets and drawers to store dishes and food. Consider a Lazy Susan as an alternative storage device.

4). Not enough lighting. One overhead light fixture is rarely enough. Have a light above your stove and another one over the sink for a close look at what you are working on.

5). No garbage disposal. A garbage disposal saves time and can help reduce clogging in the sink.

6). Replacing cabinets when unnecessary. Replacing kitchen cabinets can be very expensive, especially when re-painting will make them look like new. Consider this option instead of purchasing new cabinets.

7). Good-sized workspace. Failure to have enough counter space can make even simple cooking tasks daunting. Islands are helpful as long as they allow adequate room to easily navigate. Otherwise, be sure to keep counters clear to make the most of the space you have.

8).Adequate number of outlets. Make sure that you have at least two, preferably three outlets in your kitchen. You will need them for various appliances. It is best they are spread out so nothing is too far out of reach.

9). Slippery floor. Be selective about the type of floor in your kitchen. Hardwood floors are very durable and long-lasting. Linoleum works well for quick clean up but can be slippery.

10). Lack of organization. Many people make designing a kitchen more difficult by not having appliances in strategic places. Garbage cans should be near the dishwasher to easily scrape off food, knives, forks and spoons should be near mixers and the cutting board, etc. Try to make all common items within arms reach of each other.